"Negotiations Without Ground Rules": Disorder in US–Iran talks

Published April 10th, 2026 - 07:31 GMT
"Negotiations Without Ground Rules": Disorder in US–Iran talks
SAUL LOEB / AFP Photo by SAUL LOEB / AFP US President Donald Trump, alongside CIA Director John Ratcliffe (2R), US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (3R) and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine (L)

ALBAWABA - According to a U.S. official, the United States and Iran have not yet agreed on the topic for future talks that are anticipated to take place in Islamabad.

Speaking to Axios, the official highlighted the early uncertainties surrounding the scheduled talks by stating that negotiations about the important problems to be addressed are still ongoing.

Trump's Viewpoint

Iran's negotiation position was minimized by U.S. President Donald Trump, who said that Tehran's power over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for the world's oil supply, is the extent of its clout.

Trump said in comments posted on Truth Social that Iran's main benefit is its capacity to obstruct shipping channels, characterizing it as temporary pressure on international markets.

Discussions to Come

Both parties are anticipated to move forward with talks in Pakistan, with diplomatic attempts continuing through middlemen, despite the absence of agreement on negotiation parameters.

Given the wider issues impacting the area and global energy security, analysts point out that differences over the scope of negotiations might impede progress.